Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli

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Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli is the side dish you didn’t know you needed. It takes a humble veggie and transforms it into golden-edged, nutty-crisp florets that taste almost like a treat. With just a handful of ingredients and barely any oil, the air fryer works its magic in under 10 minutes—giving you broccoli that’s tender inside and gloriously charred outside.

Whether you’re trying to eat more greens or looking for a quick and healthy snack, this recipe checks all the boxes. It pairs beautifully with weeknight dinners or can stand alone as a light bite. The secret? A touch of seasoning, a drizzle of olive oil, and a dusting of Parmesan right at the end for an extra pop of savory crunch.

What Kind of Broccoli Should I Use?

Go for fresh, firm broccoli heads with tightly packed florets. While pre-cut florets from a bag can be convenient, they tend to be smaller and may overcook. Cutting your own gives you control over size—aim for medium florets that allow for crisp edges while staying tender in the middle.

Ingredients for the Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli

• Fresh Broccoli – The star of the show! Opt for fresh over frozen to avoid sogginess.
• Olive Oil – Just a drizzle helps achieve that crave-worthy crisp without deep frying.
• Garlic Powder – Adds a savory depth that complements the charred edges.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for balance and flavor.
• Grated Parmesan – Sprinkled on after air frying for a salty, cheesy finish that melts slightly onto the hot broccoli.

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How To Make the Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli

Step 1: Prep the Broccoli

Cut the broccoli into evenly sized medium florets. Rinse and thoroughly dry them—excess moisture can cause steaming instead of crisping.

Step 2: Toss with Oil and Seasoning

In a large bowl, combine the florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure each piece is lightly coated.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes. This ensures immediate sizzling and crisping.

Step 4: Cook in Batches

Arrange the broccoli in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding so the air circulates properly. Air fry for 7-9 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden-brown and crispy.

Step 5: Add Parmesan

As soon as the broccoli comes out, sprinkle with grated Parmesan. It will soften and stick to the hot florets for a delicious cheesy layer.

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How to Serve and Store Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli

Serve your crispy broccoli hot from the fryer for best texture. It’s perfect as a side, a low-carb snack, or even tossed into a grain bowl or salad.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to bring back the crisp.

What to Serve With Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli?

Grilled Lemon Chicken

The bright citrus notes of grilled lemon chicken balance the charred flavor of the broccoli.

Creamy Beef and Shells

For a comforting weeknight dinner, pair with this rich pasta dish packed with hearty flavor.

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Let this crispy veggie cut through the richness of baked stuffed pasta.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

A crispy broccoli side balances the creamy, meaty indulgence.

Roasted Parmesan Green Beans

Double down on crispy veggies for a colorful and texture-rich plate.

Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo

Use it to enhance a seafood pasta classic with even more broccoli crunch.

Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

Pairs beautifully with this one-pot creamy dish for a balanced bite.

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Want More Vegetable Side Dish Ideas?

If you loved this Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli, here are some other veggie-forward sides to explore:

• Roasted Parmesan Green Beans for a salty, crispy bite.
• Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes when you want sweet meets savory.
• Roasted Broccoli and Sweet Potatoes if you’re after a hearty tray bake.
• Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes for a touch of natural sweetness.
• Butter Boiled Corn on the Cob when it’s corn season.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can come back to it whenever you need a quick veggie idea.

Let me know in the comments how your batch turned out. Did you add lemon zest or chili flakes for a twist? Did you go heavy on the Parmesan?

I always love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Questions? Drop them below—let’s help each other air fry better!

Explore more healthy and satisfying veggie creations on ChefAlchemy’s Recipes for your daily inspiration!

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